The FCT Golf Association has selected 14 golfers—seven male and seven female—to represent the Federal Capital Territory at the upcoming National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30.
The golfers were chosen from a competitive field of 56 players during a rigorous two-day qualifying series held at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja. Among the participants were former Kogi State First Lady, Faridah Wada, Ambassador Ben Okoyen and former IBB Club Captain, Banjo Obaleye.
Head coach of the FCT team, Adeniran Olanrewaju, expressed confidence in his squad’s potential to bring home medals and emphasized the importance of early preparations.
“We are looking to have a medal harvest of course by God’s grace during the festival, and to achieve that, we are going into early camping to put finishing touches on our preparation,” he said.
Faridah Wada, who also competed in the qualifiers, explained her participation was more about motivation than competition.
“I took part in the qualifiers not necessarily because I want to participate in the qualifiers. I was there to motivate and challenge the other athletes so we can get the best to represent FCT,” she said.
One of the selected golfers, Olalere Olakunle, who will be competing in the amateur category, shared his excitement after making the team.
“It was a tough two-day event under the hot sun, and I am glad I made the final cut. I am looking to win medals for FCT, and I believe I will achieve that alongside my other teammates,” he said.
Faridah Wada, who also competed in the qualifiers, explained her participation was more about motivation than competition.
“I took part in the qualifiers not necessarily because I want to participate in the qualifiers. I was there to motivate and challenge the other athletes so we can get the best to represent FCT,” she said.
One of the selected golfers, Olalere Olakunle, who will be competing in the amateur category, shared his excitement after making the team.
“It was a tough two-day event under the hot sun, and I am glad I made the final cut. I am looking to win medals for FCT, and I believe I will achieve that alongside my other teammates,” he said.
Meanwhile, the association has congratulated Rory McIlroy for winning his first Masters after 11 previous attempts with birdie on first extra hole
The 35-year-old pro golfer had defeated Justin Rose to win the 89th Masters Tournament held at the famed Augusta National Golf Course, in US.